I was perfectly healthy and
strong. The weather was not cold for the time of the year. It was
a dark, moist Yule--not a snowy one, though snow brooded overhead
in the darkling clouds. I DID make the offer, which became me, I
said with a laugh, as the youngest. My sisters laughed too, and
made a jest of my evident wish to propitiate my godmother. "She is
a fairy godmother, Rosa," said Minnie; "and you know she was
affronted at your christening, and went away muttering vengeance.
Here she is coming back to see you; I hope she brings golden gifts
with her."
I thought little of Lady Speldhurst and her possible golden gifts.
I cared nothing for the wonderful fortune in the funds that my
aunts whispered and nodded about so mysteriously. But since then I
have wondered whether, had I then showed myself peevish or
obstinate--had I refused to give up my room for the expected
kinswoman--it would not have altered the whole of my life? But
then Lucy or Minnie would have offered in my stead, and been
sacrificed--what do I say?--better that the blow should have fallen
as it did than on those dear ones.
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